Day-by-Day Difficulty Level of Rupin Pass Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Bawta

Distance: Around 195 km drive

Duration:8–9 hours

Difficulty Level: Easy

The adventure begins with an 8–9 hour drive from Shimla to Bawta.Although there is no trekking today, the long mountain drive can feel tiring. It is important to relax, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep before starting the trek.

Day 2: Bawta to Jakha

Trek Distance: 5 km

Trek Duration: 5 Hours

Altitude:Bawta (7,700 ft) → Jakha(8,700 ft)

Altitude Gain: 1,000 ft

Difficulty Level: Easy

The first trekking day starts with a moderate climb towards Jiskun followed by a descent to Jakha, one of the highest villages in the region.The trail is well-defined and passes through forests and traditional villages.Since the distance is short, most trekkers find this day comfortable.

Day 3: Jakha to Dandreyash Thatch

Trek Distance: 11 km

Trek Duration: 8–9 Hours

Altitude: Jakha(8,700 ft)→Dandreyash Thatch (11,700 ft)

Altitude Gain: 3,000 ft

Difficulty Level: Moderate

This is one of the longest walking days.The trail follows the Rupin River through beautiful valleys, wooden bridges, and green meadows.Although the climb is gradual, walking for almost nine hours can be physically demanding.Good stamina is important for this day.

Day 4: Rest and Acclimatization Day

This day is one of the most important parts of the itinerary.Instead of trekking further, you spend the day at Dandreyash Thatch to allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. This reduces the chances of altitude sickness before reaching higher camps.

Day 5: Dandreyash Thatch to Upper Waterfall

Trek Distance: 5 km

Trek Duration: 4–5 Hours

Altitude:Dandreyash Thatch (11,700 ft) →Upper Waterfall (13,300 ft)

Altitude Gain:16,00ft

Difficulty Level: Moderate

This is one of the most scenic days of the trek.You camp near the famous Upper Waterfall, surrounded by snow-covered mountains.Although the trekking distance is short, the higher altitude makes breathing slightly harder.

Trekkers should:

• Walk slowly
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid overexertion
• Follow the trek leader’s instructions

Day 6: Upper Waterfall to Rupin Pass to Ronti Gad

Trek Distance: 12 km

Trek Duration: Around 12 Hours

Altitude:Upper Waterfall (13,300 ft)→Rupin Pass (15,255 ft) →Ronti Gad( 12,300ft)

Altitude Gain:Upper Waterfallto Rupin Pass→1,955 ft

Altitude Loss:Rupin PasstoRonti Gad→2,955 ft

Difficulty Level: Difficult

This is the toughest day of the entire Rupin Pass Trek.The trek starts at around 4:00 AM.You climb towards the famous Rupin Gully, a steep 200-meter ascent that tests your endurance.After reaching the pass, the trail descends towards Ronti Gad.Physical fitness and mental determination are very important on this day.

Day 7:Ronti Gad to Sangla

Trek Distance: 8 km

Trek Duration: 4 Hours

Drive to Shimla: Around 10 Hours

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

The final trekking day is mostly downhill.Descending is easier on your lungs but can be tough on your knees.After reaching Sangla, you drive back to Shimla.Although the trek becomes easier, the long drive makes the day tiring.